Groom, 34, Collapsing After Suffering Cardiac Arrest at His Wedding

A wedding in Israel took a terrifying turn when a 34-year-old groom suddenly collapsed during the celebration and went into cardiac arrest — right in front of his new bride and stunned guests.

The nuptials were underway at an event hall in Kibbutz Hulda, located in the Gezer Regional Council, when the groom hit the floor without warning, according to local outlets including The Times of Israel and Israel National News.

That’s when guest Ben Sinai, an EMT with United Hatzalah, sprinted into action.

Sinai later said he was enjoying the festivities when he heard frantic shouts and saw the groom unresponsive. He radioed for backup and immediately began CPR as other EMTs rushed in to help. The venue’s defibrillator was brought out as they worked to revive him.

“Following prolonged resuscitation efforts, the groom achieved return of spontaneous circulation,” Sinai said.

Emergency crews transported the groom to Kaplan Medical Center in Rehovot, where he arrived sedated, on a ventilator, and listed in serious but stable condition.

United Hatzalah confirmed the dramatic rescue on social media, and PEOPLE has reached out to the organization for more details.

What was meant to be the happiest day of his life nearly became a tragedy — but thanks to a quick-thinking guest, the groom has a fighting chance at recovery.